THE DELAWARE VALLEY MINORITY
STUDENT ACHIEVEMENT CONSORTIUM
2010-11
MIDDLE SCHOOL STUDENT LEADERSHIP INSTITUTE
“LIGHTING THE PATH TO YOUR FUTURE”
January 13, 2011
University of Pennsylvania
Sheraton University City Hotel
Philadelphia, PA
2010-11
FALL MIDDLE SCHOOL
STUDENT LEADERSHIP INSTITUTE PROGRAM
8:15-8:45
REGISTRATION AND CONTINENTAL
BREAKFAST
Lower Lobby
9:00-9:15
WELCOME
Ben Franklin Ballroom 2-3-4-5
Dr. Robert L. Jarvis, Director
Delaware Valley Minority Student Achievement Consortium
Penn Center for Educational Leadership
Graduate School of Education
University of Pennsylvania
9:15-10:00
KEYNOTE ADDRESS
Ben Franklin Ballroom 2-3-4-5
“A LEGACY OF HOPE”
What are you doing to make a positive difference? Does it really matter how you treat others? How are you going to
achieve your life goals? During this motivational keynote presentation, Mr. Lance “Claysmile” Smith will use humor, music
and experiential activities to engage the audience to explore the meaning of “Leading a Significant Life” in 2011 and
beyond. Sharing personal stories and real-life examples of achievement in spite of life challenges, the audience will be
inspired to live a life of resilience, self-control, and contribution as they make a positive difference in their life, for other
people and in our global society.
Mr. Lance “Claysmile” Smith
Success By Choice
Wheaton, MD
Mr. Lance Smith is committed to making a difference in our global society. He is a CPA (Certified Public Accountant) and
worked as an auditor with the federal government for over 6 years. However, his primary passion has always been and
continues to be his career as a motivational speaker. Known as “Claysmile” to audiences throughout the United States,
Lance delivers entertaining presentations that effectively engage, educate, and empower. He is the author of the book, “My
Name is Victory: Eight Secrets to Achieving your Dreams in Spite of Obstacles” and he is the creator of “The Claysmile
Show”, a weekly cable TV show.
Lance is on a mission to reach and inspire others with a profound legacy that he received from an older sibling. Sean, one
of Smith’s older brothers, struggled with several life issues but yet had the altruism and compassion to reach out and give
his little brother pieces of wisdom by using his own struggles as teaching tools. Lance used these profound life principles
to overcome his own learning challenges, rising from being a student in special education into a successful working
professional.
10:05-11:00
BREAKOUT SESSION 1
1.
“BULLIES, PARENTS & TEACHERS – OMG: HOW TO FIND MY
OWN VOICE”
PRESENTER:
Dr. Chuck Williams, Assistant Clinical Professor and Director of the Center for the Prevention of
School-Aged Violence
School of Education
Drexel University
Philadelphia, PA
ROOM:
University 2
SESSION DESCRIPTION: Students will explore and discuss issues related to bullying, self-esteem and peer pressure. Issues
related to belonging and wanting to “fit in” will also be examined. We will also view a few videos of youth discussing some
of the challenges which they face; this will provide the basis for interactive group activities. Youth will also have an
opportunity to share their successes, with the hopes of inspiring their peers.
2.
“WHAT YOU DO TODAY REALLY DOES MATTER: LIGHTING
THE PATH TO YOUR FUTURE”
PRESENTER:
ROOM:
Lance “Claysmile” Smith
Success By Choice
Wheaton, MD
University 1
SESSION DESCRIPTION: What are your goals? Where do you want to be 20 years from now? Are you really on the correct
path to fulfilling your dreams? During this interactive session, you will reflect on your goals and determine if your current
choices are leading you to the future that you envision for yourself. You will leave this session with the “Making a Positive
Difference” handout so you may be held accountable to being your best as you maximize your true potential.
3.
“SCHOOL OR EDUCATION: THE CHOICE IS YOURS!”
PRESENTER:
Mr. Edgar Mitchell, Assessment Coordinator, Eastern University Charter School and Co-Founder,
B.E.S.T. (Building Educational Success Together) Academies
Philadelphia, PA
ROOM:
Chestnut
SESSION DESCRIPTION: Many believe that getting a good education is the true purpose for going school. In fact, it is the
law which provides the grounds of the formal education system in the United States. The benefit of earning a diploma or
degree provides an individual with society’s recognition which states that with such achievements, a person is able to
follow directions and complete a task; traits desired by every employer from the small business to large corporate
organizations. In this workshop, “SCHOOL OR EDUCATION: The Choice is Yours,” Mr. Mitchell speaks to each participate
about the importance of what it really takes for someone to be successful in life referring to a termed he has coined in the
acronym: B.U.I.L.D. -- an educationally-centered lifestyle. The goal of this session to empower each student with insights of
how one must maximize every experience in life as a tool for moving one step closer towards their passions and ultimately
to a place where notion of merely “going to school” ends and the boundless road of education begins.
4.
“CODE SWITCHING OR KEEPING IT REAL? A CONVERSATION
ON STANDARD ENGLISH VS ETHNIC SLANG AND HOW IT MAY
AFFECT YOU”
PRESENTERS:
Mrs. Andrea Lawful-Trainer, Educational Consultant and Parent
Mrs. Robyn Tucker, Educational Consultant and Parent
Abington School District
Abington, PA
ROOM:
Ben Franklin 1
SESSION DESCRIPTION: This workshop is designed to be a spirited conversation between the youth and the two
facilitators on the merits/ consequences of speaking in a manner that may be misconstrued as negative or “trash” talking.
When is it appropriate? Are you losing your identity if you “Code Switch?” The presenters are parents of teenagers who sit
on both sides of the spectrum and will keep you laughing while giving you food for thought on why first impressions are
often lasting ones. Come and discuss with these adults how you can remain true to yourself and keep your identity in an
increasingly competitive school environment without being perceived as offensive.
5.
“LESSONS WE HAVE LEARNED: FINDING & MAKING TIME FOR
SUCCESS”
PRESENTERS:
Andrea Wilson-Harvey and High School Student Leaders From Harriton and Lower Merion High
Schools, Lower Merion School District
Stephan Clayton
Ugo Obieshi
Tyler Goodwin
Gerald Gardner
Zaakir Carter
Jenna Jackson
Virginia Vass
Jasmine James
Taneisha Spall and Caeli Duke and Student Leaders From Wissahickon High School, Wissahickon
School District
Ebony Grasty
Nkosi Jones
Shelleah Jackson
KJ Lassiter
ROOM:
Fairmount 1
SESSION DESCRIPTION: Student leaders from Harriton, Lower Merion and Wissahickon High Schools will come together to
share the do’s and don’ts of navigating the sometimes slippery slopes of high school. The panel will discuss their own
successes and struggles as well as give survival tips geared toward how their middle school audience might learn from
their experiences. This workshop is student-centered, and will include interactive discussion and time for questions.
6.
“DISCOVERING YOUR PURPOSE AND PASSION”
PRESENTERS:
Mr. Omar Barlow, CEO and Principal, Eastern University Academy Charter School and
Barlow Enterprises: Work. Love. Live. BE More Excellent
Cheltenham, PA
ROOM:
Fairmount 2
SESSION DESCRIPTION:
Many have defined success in terms of money, possessions, prestige, and status. Yet, while in
desperate pursuit of these things many still find themselves dissatisfied and discontent. Meanwhile, others experience
internal frustration because they fall into the trap of "constant activity" in an effort to survive or find happiness. Instead of
attempting to live in accordance with these false ideas of success and in silent frustration, people need to commit to
discover and fulfill their life's purpose.
The greatest men and women are very clear about their purpose. They know that their lives are extremely significant.
Knowing it, they intentionally seek to uniquely express their passions, gifts, and talents. The discovery of their reason for
existence enables them to transcend countless barriers to success. This process equips you to acquire the keys to
discovering your purpose. You will learn why the fulfillment of purpose is the ultimate measure of success. Once you learn
these essential principles, your entire perspective will change, and so will your life!!!
11:05-NOON
1.
BREAKOUT SESSION 2
“DISCOVERING YOUR PURPOSE AND PASSION”
PRESENTERS:
Mr. Omar Barlow, CEO and Principal, Eastern University Academy Charter School and
Barlow Enterprises: Work. Love. Live. BE More Excellent
Cheltenham, PA
ROOM:
Fairmount 2
SESSION DESCRIPTION:
Many have defined success in terms of money, possessions, prestige, and status. Yet, while in
desperate pursuit of these things many still find themselves dissatisfied and discontent. Meanwhile, others experience
internal frustration because they fall into the trap of "constant activity" in an effort to survive or find happiness. Instead of
attempting to live in accordance with these false ideas of success and in silent frustration, people need to commit to
discover and fulfill their life's purpose.
The greatest men and women are very clear about their purpose. They know that their lives are extremely significant.
Knowing it, they intentionally seek to uniquely express their passions, gifts, and talents. The discovery of their reason for
existence enables them to transcend countless barriers to success. This process equips you to acquire the keys to
discovering your purpose. You will learn why the fulfillment of purpose is the ultimate measure of success. Once you learn
these essential principles, your entire perspective will change, and so will your life!!!
2.
“LESSONS WE HAVE LEARNED: FINDING & MAKING TIME
FOR SUCCESS”
PRESENTERS:
Andrea Wilson-Harvey and High School Student Leaders From Harriton and Lower Merion High
Schools, Lower Merion School District
Stephan Clayton
Ugo Obieshi
Tyler Goodwin
Gerald Gardner
Zaakir Carter
Jenna Jackson
Virginia Vass
Jasmine James
Taneisha Spall and Caeli Duke and Student Leaders From Wissahickon High School, Wissahickon
School District
Ebony Grasty
Nkosi Jones
Shelleah Jackson
KJ Lassiter
ROOM:
Fairmount 1
SESSION DESCRIPTION: Student leaders from Harriton, Lower Merion and Wissahickon High Schools will come together to
share the do’s and don’ts of navigating the sometimes slippery slopes of high school. The panel will discuss their own
successes and struggles as well as give survival tips geared toward how their middle school audience might learn from
their experiences. This workshop is student-centered, and will include interactive discussion and time for questions.
3.
“BULLIES, PARENTS & TEACHERS – OMG: HOW TO FIND MY
OWN VOICE”
PRESENTER:
Dr. Chuck Williams, Assistant Clinical Professor and Director of the Center for the Prevention of
School-Aged Violence
School of Education
Drexel University
Philadelphia, PA
ROOM:
University 2
SESSION DESCRIPTION: Students will explore and discuss issues related to bullying, self-esteem and peer pressure. Issues
related to belonging and wanting to “fit in” will also be examined. We will also view a few videos of youth discussing some
of the challenges which they face; this will provide the basis for interactive group activities. Youth will also have an
opportunity to share their successes, with the hopes of inspiring their peers.
4.
“CODE SWITCHING OR KEEPING IT REAL? A CONVERSATION
ON STANDARD ENGLISH VS ETHNIC SLANG AND HOW IT MAY
AFFECT YOU”
PRESENTERS:
Mrs. Andrea Lawful-Trainer, Educational Consultant and Parent
Mrs. Robyn Tucker, Parent
Abington School District
Abington, PA
ROOM:
Ben Franklin 1
SESSION DESCRIPTION: This workshop is designed to be a spirited conversation between the youth and the two
facilitators on the merits/ consequences of speaking in a manner that may be misconstrued as negative or “trash” talking.
When is it appropriate? Are you losing your identity if you “Code Switch?” The presenters are parents of teenagers who sit
on both sides of the spectrum and will keep you laughing while giving you food for thought on why first impressions are
often lasting ones. Come and discuss with these adults how you can remain true to yourself and keep your identity in an
increasingly competitive school environment without being perceived as offensive.
5.
“SCHOOL OR EDUCATION: THE CHOICE IS YOURS!”
PRESENTER:
Mr. Edgar Mitchell, Assessment Coordinator, Eastern University Charter School and Co-Founder,
B.E.S.T. (Building Educational Success Together) Academies
Philadelphia, PA
ROOM:
Chestnut
SESSION DESCRIPTION: Many believe that getting a good education is the true purpose for going school. In fact, it is the
law which provides the grounds of the formal education system in the United States. The benefit of earning a diploma or
degree provides an individual with society’s recognition which states that with such achievements, a person is able to
follow directions and complete a task; traits desired by every employer from the small business to large corporate
organizations. In this workshop, “SCHOOL OR EDUCATION: The Choice is Yours,” Mr. Mitchell speaks to each participate
about the importance of what it really takes for someone to be successful in life referring to a termed he has coined in the
acronym: B.U.I.L.D. -- an educationally-centered lifestyle. The goal of this session to empower each student with insights of
how one must maximize every experience in life as a tool for moving one step closer towards their passions and ultimately
to a place where notion of merely “going to school” ends and the boundless road of education begins.
6.
“WHAT YOU DO TODAY REALLY DOES MATTER: LIGHTING
THE PATH TO YOUR FUTURE”
PRESENTER:
ROOM:
Lance “Claysmile” Smith
Success By Choice
Wheaton, MD
University 1
SESSION DESCRIPTION: What are your goals? Where do you want to be 20 years from now? Are you really on the correct
path to fulfilling your dreams? During this interactive session, you will reflect on your goals and determine if your current
choices are leading you to the future that you envision for yourself. You will leave this session with the “Making a Positive
Difference” handout so you may be held accountable to being your best as you maximize your true potential.
12:05-12:45
LUNCH/MIX AND MINGLE
Ben Franklin Ballroom 2-3-4-5
12:45-1:45
SPECIAL SESSION: “MAKING A DIFFERENCE IN
YOUR COMMUNITY: A LINE OF CHOICES”
WITH MR. LANCE SMITH
Ben Franklin Ballroom 2-3-4-5
1:45-2:15
FINAL REFLECTIONS“CONTINUING THE MOMENTUM”
Ben Franklin Ballroom 2-3-4-5
2:15-2:30
BUSES DEPART
Special thanks to Mr. David Poindexter, Cheltenham Township School District, and
Mrs. Alyse Halpin, Kennett Consolidated School District for their extraordinary leadership
in organizing this event with support of many other dedicated teachers, counselors and
school administrators from our Delaware Valley Minority Student Achievement Consortium
school districts.
2010-11 Delaware Valley Minority Student Achievement Consortium Member
School Districts, County Intermediate Units and State Education Association
Abington School District
Amy Sichel, Superintendent
Abington, PA
Methacton School District
Tim Quinn, Superintendent
Eagleville, PA
Allentown Area School District
Jerry Zahorchak, Superintendent
Allentown, PA
Montgomery County IU #23
Jerry Shiveley, Executive Director,
Norristown, PA
Bensalem Township School District
William Gretzula, Superintendent
Bensalem, PA
Norristown Area School District
Janet Samuels, Superintendent
Norristown, PA
Brandywine School District
Mark Holodick, Superintendent
Claymont, DE
North Penn School District
Curtis Dietrich, Superintendent
Lansdale, PA
Burlington Co. Institute of Technology
Delores Szymanski, Superintendent
Westhampton, NJ
School District of Cheltenham Township
Darlene Davis, Superintendent
Elkins Park, PA
Pennsylvania State Education Association
James Testerman, President
Michael Crossey, President-Elect
Jerry Oleksiak, Treasurer
Linda Cook, Southeastern Region President
James Sando, Mideastern Region President
Harrisburg, PA
Cherry Hill Public Schools
David Campbell, Superintendent
Cherry Hill, NJ
Perkiomen Valley School District
Cliff Rogers, Superintendent
Collegeville, PA
Chester County IU #24
Joe O’Brien, Executive Director
Downingtown, PA
Rancocas Valley Regional HS District
Mike Moskalski, Superintendent
Mt. Holly, NJ
Downingtown Area School District
Lawrence Mussoline, Superintendent
Downingtown, PA
Rose Tree Media School District
Denise Kerr, Superintendent
Media, PA
Easton Area School District
Susan McGinley, Superintendent
Easton, PA
Southeast Delco School District
Stephen Butz, Superintendent
Folcroft, PA
Hatboro-Horsham School District
Curtis Griffin, Superintendent
Horsham, PA
Springfield School District
Jim Capolupo, Superintendent
Springfield, PA
Kennett Consolidated School District
Barry Tomasetti, Superintendent
Kennett Square, PA
Upper Dublin School District
Michael Pladus, Superintendent
Maple Glen, PA
Lenape Regional School District
Emily Capella, Superintendent
Shamong, NJ
Upper Merion School District
Melissa Jamula, Superintendent
King of Prussia, PA
Lindenwold Public Schools
Geraldine Carroll, Superintendent
Lindenwold, NJ
West Chester Area School District
Jim Scanlon, Superintendent
West Chester, PA
Lower Merion School District
Christopher McGinley, Superintendent
Ardmore, PA
West Windsor-Plainsboro SD
Victoria Kniewel, Superintendent
Princeton Junction, NJ
Wissahickon School District
Judith Clark, Superintendent
Ambler, PA